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The much-awaited knockout match between the English side and South Africa in the Women’s Cricket World Cup has commenced in Guwahati. England clinched the toss and opted to bowl, hoping to put pressure on the South African batting lineup.

Key Moments

• Anthems were sung before the match, with the Proteas' uplifting anthem receiving acclaim.
• Playing XIs were announced and each team naming competitive elevens.
• The English team won the toss and decided to field. Skipper NSB emphasized the importance of sticking to their plans.
• Ecclestone has been declared fit to take part even with some discomfort.

In-Play Action

Seventh Over: The Proteas 41 for no loss (Wolvaardt 24 runs, Brits 13 runs)

NSB brought herself on to replace Bell. No boundaries were given away, thanks to quick work in the field from Beaumont on the boundary.

Sixth Over: The Proteas 35 without loss (Laura Wolvaardt 22 runs, Brits 10)

Wolvaardt, looking in great touch, struck two consecutive boundaries off Smith. A full toss was dispatched through long off, and then a loose ball through cover point.

Fifth Over: South Africa 27-0 (Laura Wolvaardt 14 runs, Brits 10 runs)

A brief mix-up nearly cost Brits a dismissal, however the throw from NSB wasn't on target. Brits then responded with a powerful shot a wide delivery past cover for four. Lauren Bell finished the over with a well-pitched ball which rose over Brits' bat.

4th Over: The Proteas 21 without loss (Laura Wolvaardt 13, Tazmin Brits 6 runs)

Smith delivered a controlled over. Despite the earlier chance, reports indicate the English team have the top fielding record in the tournament.

Third Over: South Africa 19 for no loss (Laura Wolvaardt 12, Brits 5 runs)

A possible catch was not taken. Tazmin Brits struck fiercely a ball toward Lauren Bell, which flew to the boundary.

2nd Over: South Africa 14-0 (Laura Wolvaardt 12 runs, Tazmin Brits 1 run)

Overcast conditions covered the venue, with the lights in use. Smith seemed in better rhythm than in her previous match but served up a poor ball that Wolvaardt hit hard through the covers for four.

1st Over: South Africa 9-0 (Wolvaardt 8, Brits 0)

Lauren Bell started the innings with the new ball. The South African batter seized the opportunity, hitting the initial delivery with style through the covers for four. Another wide delivery was cut for another boundary. The bowler adjusted her length, allowing just one run from a wide.

Match Preview

The pitch is said to be different from the one used in the teams' first encounter. It is described as a "red soil pitch", which should offer extra bounce and assistance for fast bowlers.

The two sides have had inconsistent form in the competition so far. England are seen as the front-runners, however the Proteas are capable of springing a surprise. Past records indicate the English side have won earlier knockout clashes when these teams met.

“Roll up your sleeves, this is where it gets messy.” The stakes are high as both teams targeting a spot in the championship match.

Keep following for more updates as the match unfolds.